What is Lamotrigine?
Lamotrigine, or anticonvulsant, is an antiepileptic drug.Lamotrigine can be used to treat seizures, either alone or in combination with other medications. Lamotrigine can also be used to delay mood episodes in adults with bipolar disorder or manic depression.When given in combination with other seizure medications, immediate-release lamotrigine is safe for children as young as 2 years of age. This form of lamotrigine should not be given to a child or teen younger than 16 as a standalone medication.Lamotrigine extended-release is only for adults and children over 13 years of age.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of lamotrigine.
Side effects of Lamotrigine
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat, or a severe reaction to the skin (fever or sore throat with burning eyes, skin pain or blistering, or a red or purple rash), seek emergency medical attention.You may be prohibited from taking lamotrigine again if you stop using it because of an allergic reaction.You should tell your doctor if any symptoms worsen or change, including changes in mood or behaviour, depressive or anxious feelings, or if they are new.
Lamotrigine may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Fast, slow, fluttering, or pounding in the chest or heartbeats;
- Chest pain, shortness of breath
- Fever, swollen glands, weakness, and severe muscle pain;
- Any skin rash, particularly blistering or shedding;
- You may experience painful sores around the eyes or in your mouth.
- Headache. Neck stiffness. Increased sensitivity to lights. Nausea.
- Jaundice
- Pale skin, cold feet and hands, easy bruises, unusual bleeding
Lamotrigine can cause the following side effects:
- Headache, dizziness;
- Double vision, or blurred vision, is another name for this phenomenon.
- Tremors, loss of coordination
- Diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, and dry mouth.
- Fever, sore throat, and runny nose
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- Backache
- Sleep problems (insomnia).
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if reporting side effects is necessary.
Warnings
Lamotrigine can cause severe or even life-threatening skin reactions, especially for children, those taking a high dose, or people who are also taking Depakene or divalproex. Seek immediate medical attention if your skin is rashes, blistering, or peeling around your eyes or mouth.If you experience any other serious side effects, such as a fever, swollen or enlarged glands, severe pain in the muscles, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing skin or eyes, a headache, a stiff neck, nausea, confusion, or an increased sensitivity to light, call your doctor immediately.Lamotrigine can cause suicidal thoughts in some people. Be alert if you notice any changes in your mood or symptoms. Inform your doctor if you experience any new symptoms or if they worsen.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to lamotrigine, then it is best not to take it.Lamotrigine can cause severe, even life-threatening, skin reactions, especially when taken by children, those taking a high dose at first, and people who are also taking valproic (Depakene) or divalproex (Depakote).
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- A rash or an allergic reaction following the use of another seizure drug;
- Kidney or liver diseases
- Heart problems like heart block and irregular heartbeats.
- Depression, thoughts of suicide, or suicidal actions
- Meningitis after taking lamotrigine (inflammation in the tissues that cover the brain and the spinal cord)
Lamotrigine can cause suicidal thoughts in some people. You will be required to visit your doctor regularly in order for him or her to monitor your progress. Notify all family members if there are changes in mood or symptoms, which would require medical intervention.Don't start or stop seizure medications during pregnancy without consulting your doctor. A seizure could be harmful to both mother and child. Inform your doctor immediately if you fall pregnant.You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to track the effects lamotrigine has on the child.Birth control pills may make lamotrigine ineffective, leading to increased seizures. Inform your doctor when you stop or start using birth control pills. You may need to adjust the lamotrigine dosage.Lamotrigine can cause problems with breastfeeding. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
How to take Lamotrigine?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.Too much lamotrigine taken at the beginning of treatment can increase your risk of developing a life-threatening rash.Your doctor may want to perform frequent blood tests in order to ensure that you are receiving the correct dose.Extended-release as well as immediate-release can be used to treat different conditions. Check your refills carefully to ensure you are receiving the correct tablet size, colour, and shape. Use only the strength and form prescribed by your doctor to avoid medication errors.Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and timing of lamotrigine if you are switching from another seizure medication.Do not chew or crush the tablet.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with orally disintegrating tablets or dispersibles. If you don't understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist or doctor.Even if you are feeling fine, do not suddenly stop taking lamotrigine. Sudden stopping can cause seizures to increase. You should follow your doctor's advice about reducing your dosage.Wear or carry a medical identification card to alert others that you are taking seizure medications in an emergency.You may get false results if you use lamotrigine. Inform the lab staff that you are using lamotrigine.
Store away from moisture and light at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.Refill your prescription before you run out.
What happens if I overdose?
Reach out immediately if a poisonous substance comes your way or needs medical care, call the Poison Help Line: 1-800-222-1222 and seek immediate medical advice.Overdose symptoms include blurred vision or coordination problems, seizures, light-headedness, or fainting.
What should be avoided?
Lamotrigine can affect your reaction to driving and other hazardous activities. You may be unable to react.
Interaction with other drug
At times it may not be safe to combine certain medications. Some drugs may affect the blood levels of drugs that you are taking, which can increase side effects and make them less effective.Lamotrigine can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies.Informing your physician of all medications you are currently taking and any that have changed or that have become unavailable should help to ensure proper follow up care and assessment of potential risk.
